Friendly Fill-Ins and Eddy's Photo Fails

Hello, friends! We're ready for the Friendly Fill-Ins challenge, and we'd love for you to join us. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two fill-in statements, and I came up with the first two.


1. My summer bucket list includes _________, _________, and _________.

2. _________ and _________ are things you will never find in my home.

3. I'm good at keeping _________ very tidy.

4. I can't _________ without making a mess.

My answers are below in bold.

1. My summer bucket list includes drawing, writing, and reading.
(Preferably all done while cuddling my kitties and pup. I've mentioned all of the above activities as things I enjoy and do as often as possible. I'm a stick in the mud, but I love my mud pit, so I'll be sticking to my usual happy hobbies this summer while surrounded by my fabulous furry family.)

2. Cigarettes and plants that are toxic to animals are things you will never find in my home.

(Cigarettes aren't allowed in my house plain and simply because they're unhealthy to all and smell disgusting. The plant situation is probably obvious, as I'm not willing to risk the health of my kitties and pup.)

3. I'm good at keeping Evan's medications very tidy.
(Don't get me wrong. Before I found a good system for all of Evan's meds, they were a mess. They were piled on part of the kitchen counter, with syringes strewn amongst them. However, once I knew how often Evan needed the various meds, and the best way to administer them, I managed to get them all organized. They now live in a Halloween kitty bowl on the counter. That was probably a needless detail, but I love the bowl I put Evan's meds in. I'll try to remember to share a picture of it soon.)

4. I can't bake without making a mess.

(Especially if flour or cocoa is involved, it's going to look like a bomb went off in my kitchen. I cannot measure out either of those without it exploding all over myself, the counters, and even the floor. And that's not even mentioning all of the utensils and bowls that get strewn about the kitchen during the baking events.)

Now it's your turn!

To add your link to the Friendly Fill-Ins Linky list, just click HERE!

You can also click on the badge below to add your link.

You are also welcome to complete the fill-ins in the comments below,

or in the comments on Ellen's blog, 15andmeowing.

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And now it's time for the Pet Photo Fails Blog Hop, hosted by none other than Melissa and Mudpie of Melissa's Mochas, Mysteries, & Meows.

Our resident blooper queen Eddy is of course more than ready for this blog hop. Today's blurriness is brought to you by bath time.

Eddy and all of us here wish you a fantastic Friday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today's flashback summertime spooky doodle is in honor of the pumpkin patch my dad and I planted in his back yard. We have multiple jack-o'-lantern pumpkin plants thriving, and that makes me so happy.

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Tip of the Day

Yesterday we gave the pet parenting hack of using rubber gloves to remove furbaby hair from sofas, car interiors, and so forth. We failed to mention another option, and so we'll go ahead and do that today. If your clothing, bedding, or similar item is covered in pet hair and you're looking for a quick fix, you can try tossing it in the dryer with a dryer sheet. The anti-static nature of dyer sheets will help keep the hair from sticking to the clothing, bedding, or whatever item is in question. The hair will instead make its way to the lint trap. You could also try just rubbing a dryer sheet on the hairy item, as that sometimes will also help remove hair with the aid of its anti-static nature.

That all being said, though, please do keep those dryer sheets out of your furbaby's reach. This is because dryer sheets often contain potentially toxic components. So, keep those dryer sheets well hidden, and find and toss stray dryer sheets before dispersing the laundry. Of course, if you have any concern for your furbaby's safety, then simply refrain from using this method altogether.

Thankful Thimble Thursday: Co-starring Evan

We've reached Thursday, which of course means it's time for Angel Brian's Thankful Thursday Blog Hop.

As always, Thimble is here to share her gratitude. Today she's thankful for catnip and toys. What's more, she's grateful that her brother Evan finally managed to get some of his constipated stool out. Is that what you expected Thimble to say today?

If you look just above Thimble, or to her left, you'll see some catnip strewn about the floor. This tabby girl loves some good ol' kitty drugs.

As for orange boy Evan, we mentioned on Monday how he's really been struggling with his megacolon and resulting constipation. After giving him all of his related meds at the absolute highest doses and frequencies for many days in a row, he finally got quite a bit of stool out last night and this morning. It's admittedly been a bit of a mess, but as long it's coming out, we can sort it out from there. He's defecated enough now that I'm comfortable not moving forward with an enema at this time, but I'm sure he'll need more of those in the future, poor boy.

Happy Thursday, friends!

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Now, let's share the fill-in statements for tomorrow's Friendly Fill-Ins challenge. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two, and I came up with the second two.

1. My summer bucket list includes _________, _________, and _________.

2. _________ and _________ are things you will never find in my home.

3. I'm good at keeping _________ very tidy.

4. I can't _________ without making a mess.

We'll see you tomorrow, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

It's yet another flashback spooky summertime doodle for today.

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Tip of the Day

Do you have furbaby hair on your sofa? What about in your car? Surely not on your clothes? Our pet parenting life hack for today is to keep some rubber gloves on hand. Why? Because, aside from the more commonly used lint roller or piece of tape, or of course a vacuum cleaner, rubber gloves can be a reusable tool for removing furbaby hair from surfaces such as sofas and car interiors. You just put on a rubber glove and run it over the hairy sofa or other surface. The rubber glove will help lift the hair from the surface, and the hair will instead stick to the glove. When you're done using the glove to remove furbaby hair from your furniture, one easy way to get said hair off of the glove is by submerging the glove in water. The hair will float off of the glove, and then you can dip the hair out of the water and toss it. So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, reusable tool for removing your furbaby's hair from your furniture, consider giving the rubber glove trick a try.

Woof Woof Wednesday in the Window

Astrid has a ton of photos to share over the next few weeks that were taken on her springtime and now summertime walks. Some of them include some unexpected friends and strange things, and she can't wait to share those. Before she floods her posts with all those fun walks, though, she thought she'd give you a dose of her pouting in her beloved window.

Happy Wednesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

We have for you yet another flashback doodle of the spooky summer sort. Because why not. This one was inspired by the movie Frankenweenie.

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Tip of the Day

We've decided to do a series of tips on life hacks for pet parents, especially cat parents. These hacks may be all sorts of random, and most of them are very likely repeats of tips from the past. But, we hope these might offer some pet parenting tips for saving money, saving space, saving time, and, of course, keeping your furbaby happy and healthy.

Today's hack is about those windows, which may or may not be open during the warm summer months. We're here today to ask if you know that there is window screen tape on the market. Did you know that? If you are in need of a quick or temporary fix for a torn window screen, especially if there is any chance that the window might be opened and a furbaby potentially escape, then perhaps look into having window screen tape on hand. This tape can be applied to a tear in a window screen, and is meant not only to hold it together, but is also made to look like part of the screen. Of course, this is likely not mean to be a permanent fix, and may not be able to hold up to a determined furbaby. It is of course still wise to only open windows when they are safe and when the furbaby is supervised, but it might not hurt to have window screen tape on hand in case an emergency quick fix is needed.

Shocked Tonks Tuesday

Tonks was chasing yet another fly in yet another window when I brought the camera to her. She was quite shocked by the interruption of her hunt, which resulted in this expression on her face.

Humans can be so rude, bothering kitties innocently hunting bugs. Even so, Tonks hopes you all have a happy Tuesday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today is halfway to Christmas, which perhaps explains today's flashback doodle.

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Tip of the Day

Today's summer safety tip for strays and ferals relates to the trap-neuter-release (TNR) practice. TNR is crucial for keeping the feral cat population under control, as well as keeping individual ferals as safe and healthy as possible. This being said, always keep the weather and environment in mind when embarking on a TNR effort.

The summer heat can of course pose an extreme danger to cats being trapped. Potentially fatal overheating or heat stroke can occur if a cat is trapped and left sitting in the trap in the sun. In addition to this, traps are often made of metal, which means that if these traps are sitting on a hot surface, such as asphalt, the trap as well as the cat inside can overheat in this way as well. To combat such issues, try to trap and thereafter keep ferals in the shade. After they are trapped, do not leave the cats sitting out in the sun and heat, but instead transfer them somewhere cool as soon as possible. Also keep in mind the cats' safety when transporting them. For example, as you all surely know, the interior of a car can quickly become like a deadly oven in the summer months, so do not leave any animals, including trapped ferals, inside hot cars.

TNR is of course a very important practice for the safety and well-being of feral cats. That doesn't mean there aren't risks to the cats, though, and that includes the weather. So, if you are assisting in the significant task of trapping ferals, of course always ensure the cats' safety in all weather.

Mancat Monday with Megacolon

My poor mancat Evan is have a hefty flare of constipation. He's on 3 medications for megacolon, but sometimes even those get their butts kicked. While we work through this, he's at least still my cuddly little momma's boy.

That's Evan napping on my leg on the couch this weekend. He tucked his head under that pillow all on his own, so I just left it there. He didn't even flinch when housemate Winky came over to snooze on the pillow, effectively squishing Evan's head.

If you have any purrs and prayers to spare for this poor constipated boy, both Evan and I would appreciate it. I've upped his meds to their extreme maximum. That often ultimately results in pretty gnarly diarrhea, but we're doing our best to clear out that colon. If this increase in his usual meds doesn't do the trick, this poor boy will have to get an enema. Let's hope we can avoid that.

Happy Monday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

We have yet another flashback summertime spooky doodle, since I'm already ready for autumn and Halloween.

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Tip of the Day

We're continuing on with our tips on summer safety for outdoor strays and ferals. Today we're moving on to the topic of food. When feeding furbabies outdoors, you of course have to take into consideration the heat of summer. Food can spoil in extreme heat, as you all surely know. Dry food is often the best one to feed strays and ferals on hot days. After all, moist food will spoil far more quickly, and will also quickly dry out in the sun and heat. You can try adding additional water to moist food to keep it from drying out too quickly, but even this method won't be able to combat the heat for long. No matter what type of food you feed to strays and ferals, do try to keep it in a shaded area or under a shaded shelter. What's more, remove old food and offer fresh food as often as is possible and needed.

It's also worth noting that though dry food is easier and safer to feed to outdoor cats in the heat, you still have to take precautions. Not only can dry food lose its freshness and safe status in the heat, but also think of instances such as rainy days. Dry food that gets wet will swell, become unappetizing, and can easily spoil if not cleaned up. So, when feeding dry or even moist food, of course keep in mind not only the heat, but other environmental factors such as rain. All in all, keep those strays and ferals healthy this summer with fresh food that is in the shade and protected from spoilage and other issues as best as possible.

Friendly Fill-Ins and Summertime Snuggles

Hello, friends! We're ready for the Friendly Fill-Ins challenge, and we'd love for you to join us. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two fill-in statements, and I came up with the second two.


1. My preferred method of procrastination is _________.

2. I always procrastinate when I am supposed to _________.

3. My goal of _________ is going really well.

4. If I opened a _________ shop, I would name it _________.

My answers are below in bold.

1. My preferred method of procrastination is watching YouTube videos.

(I enjoy watching YouTube videos related to my interests and hobbies, such as cats, books, art, and so on and so forth. I'll often put in earphones during chore time and listen to such videos as if they were podcasts. I don't pay for any podcast or music apps, and so I use free YouTube. The problem is, when I start looking for a video to listen to while doing chores, I'll often end up just sitting there watching the videos while doing nothing.)

2. I always procrastinate when I am supposed to clean the bathroom.

(Is there anyone out there who actually enjoys the chore of cleaning the bathroom? I know I sure don't like it. Which is probably why this is my answer here.)

3. My goal of reading every day is going really well.

(Years and years ago I read all the time. This was obviously easier when I was a student and had more free time and just time off in general. Over the years I started reading less, especially after I joined the full-time workforce. So, at the beginning of this year, I made a goal to read every day. Even if I only have time to read for 5 minutes, that's better than nothing and ensures that I'm still setting aside time for my beloved books every day. I have not missed a single day of reading since January. I'm really proud of myself for that, not to mention it's helped me remember how much I truly love reading.)

4. If I opened a bookshop, I would name it Furballs and Fairytales.

(Because obviously the bookshop would also be the home of some kitties. Kind of like how there are cat cafes, I'd love to have a bookshop with resident cats. The kitties could be adoptable or permanent residents. I can even envision this hypothetical bookshop having fireplaces surrounded by chairs in which readers and cats could rendezvous.)

Now it's your turn!

To add your link to the Friendly Fill-Ins Linky list, just click HERE!

You can also click on the badge below to add your link.

You are also welcome to complete the fill-ins in the comments below,

or in the comments on Ellen's blog, 15andmeowing.

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Your Eddy fix for today comes in the form of this little tabby girl enjoying a sun puddle while curled up on the lap of this here mom of hers.

Summertime snuggles are rare thanks to that nasty heat. But, when Eddy agrees to snuggle despite the uncomfortable warmth, I just stay put and allow it. I'll risk sweating for some kitty cuddles.

Happy Friday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I've mentioned multiple times during this nearly 100°F week that I'm in the mood for autumn and Halloween. Because of this, I'm scribbling up some new spooky doodles of a summery sort. As I work on those, we're sharing some flashbacks in a similar vein, like this one here.

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Tip of the Day

Today's summer safety tip for strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies revolves around water. Water is, as you certainly know, incredibly important for all life. It's especially important for staying hydrated and cool in the summer heat. That being said, today we have some quite logical albeit important tips for helping strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies stay hydrated this summer.

Not only is it important to keep water in a shaded area or shaded shelter, as we mentioned yesterday, but it's also important to keep fresh water available in abundance. Especially in the summer heat, it is not possible to offer too much water. Strays and ferals may very well drink, and need to drink, far more water in the heat. Not to mention, in the heat, water can evaporate very quickly. For these reasons, try to offer extra bowls of water.

Furthermore, try to keep those bowls of water as fresh and clean as possible. Refill them as often as you can, and clean them as needed. Bugs, leaves, and all sorts of other outdoor debris can find their way into water bowls. Sometimes, cats and other animals may be unable to or unwilling to drink from a bowl that has debris floating in it or that is in another way dirty. In some cases, it's also unhealthy and dangerous to drink water this has been contaminated by certain debris. So, do try to keep those bowls and the water inside them fresh and clean.

For extra chill in that water, and perhaps even to give it a bit tad bit more ability to combat evaporation in the heat, you can also try putting ice cubes in the water bowls that are available to strays and ferals. Of course, do keep in mind the furbabies' preferences when doing this. Some animals will not drink from water that has something floating in it, so if this is the case, then refrain from putting ice cubes in at least some water bowls.

All in all, never forgot that fresh, clean water can of course be crucial to comfort and survival in the summer heat. So, offer lots and lots of water for those strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies. What's more, keep an eye on those water bowls, and try to ensure that they remain full and free of debris.

Another Thankful Thimble Thursday in the Sun

It's Thursday, and Thimble is of course ready for Angel Brian's Thankful Thursday Blog Hop.

Thimble's thankful things have been pretty similar most weeks lately, but that's because she's a girl who loves the simple joys of life. And so, as is often the case, today Thimble is grateful for sunshine and window seats.

Of course, both Thimble and I are also grateful for how adorable she is. Honestly, just look at that little mouth and nose!

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Now, let's share the fill-in statements for tomorrow's Friendly Fill-Ins challenge. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two, and I came up with the second two.

1. My preferred method of procrastination is _________.

2. I always procrastinate when I am supposed to _________.

3. My goal of _________ is going really well.

4. If I opened a _________ shop, I would name it _________.

We'll see you tomorrow, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I mentioned yesterday how I'm craving autumn and Halloween, and so I'm feeling inspired to scribble up some new spooky doodles of a slightly summery sort. As I work on those, we're sharing some flashbacks in that same vein.

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Tip of the Day

We are working through a series of tips on how to keep strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies safe and sound in the summer heat. We began this series of tips yesterday by discussing the importance of offering shaded areas, where outdoor cats or even dogs can stay cool. In this same line of thought, today we want to remind you to put necessities for outdoor furbabies in said shade. Whether you have shaded areas beneath trees or bushes, a table that offers shade, a summer shelter that offers shade, or something else similar, be sure that you place food and water in those shaded areas. This will ensure that animals outdoors can have food and water that is as cool and fresh as possible, and that they can eat and drink out of the sun.

In addition, try to offer somewhere comfortable for strays, ferals, and outdoor furbabies to rest in their shaded area. For example, you can place bedding or even a chair in the shade, so that strays and ferals can get comfortable while also remaining as cool as possible. Then again, keep in mind that many furbabies will not want to sleep on blankets or other potentially insulating material in the heat. So, also take this into consideration, and make sure that shaded shelter truly allows for cool and cozy safety and relaxation. All in all, in the hot summer months, don't just offer shade to strays and ferals, but also food, water, and other necessities in that shade.

Adventures with Astrid: Dog Days of Summer

As we've mentioned more than once recently, Astrid is not a big fan of summer or its heat and humidity, and I don't blame her one bit. Our walks are often a lot shorter lately, but that doesn't mean we don't get some sunny strolls in.

This is one of Astrid's favorite sniff spots in the neighborhood. After all, this bridge gets peed on by many a dog.

Happy Wednesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I've already commented on this more times than I have a right to, but I'm already in the mood for autumn and Halloween. Maybe that's because I'm over here melting on these nearly 100°F days. Either way, I've decided I'll be scribbling up some new spooky summer doodles to help me cope with my desire for all things autumn and Halloween. In the meantime, here's a flashback to a few years ago, when we did a Halfway to Halloween April A to Z Challenge.

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Tip of the Day

Not too long ago, we gave some tips all about summer safety for our furbabies. Given that we're currently in a heat wave, we feel compelled to give even more summer tips. These tips, however, will be more focused on how to help stray, feral, or other outdoor furbabies remain safe and healthy in the heat of summer.

Let's begin with a simple yet crucial way to help strays and ferals stay cool in the summer. And that is, please try to ensure they always have access to shade. Staying out of the sun is crucial for preventing overheating, heat stroke, sunburn, and all other such dangers. For this reason, try to make sure that strays and ferals in your area have somewhere shaded to stay in the heat of the day. This can be as simple as natural shade in a safe area, such as beneath trees or bushes that are away from the street and other dangers. Access to the area beneath a deck can also allow for shade, as well as areas beneath outdoor tables and other similar objects. You can even place a giant umbrella outside, under which strays and ferals can keep cool on hot and sunny days.

If you're feeling crafty or handy, you can even build a summer shelter. Then again, you can also purchase one, as there are many options available on the market. The important thing about any summer shelter for strays and ferals is that it should remain shaded but also cool, such as by being open and airy. Do not use an enclosed shelter that will insulate heat, like those better suited for winter weather, as a stray or feral would of course not be able to use such a shelter in order to stay cool on a hot summer day. So, to help those furbabies outdoors stay cool this summer, please ensure they have somewhere shaded to chill out.

Tonks Tuesday with the Flies

It's that time of year when flies make their way into the house. And Tonks loves hunting them so very much.

I always try to save the flies and get them back outside if I can, but I must admit that Tonks has already killed at least three flies this season. She's really quite good at hunting and catching them.

I believe I was able to rescue the fly she was stalking in the photo above. When they're hanging out by the door it's usually pretty easy. I tried to help a fly escape out a window the other day, but it just could not figure out that the open window was a passage to safety. I think that fly eventually got eaten by Tonks, because I never succeeded at luring it outside.

Happy Tuesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip regarding bringing home a new furbaby is about microchips. If you adopt a furbaby from a shelter or rescue, they sometimes will have already implanted a microchip in your new kitty or pup. If this is the case, ensure that you know how to register the microchip with your information, and that you of course actually do so. If a cat or dog adopted from a shelter or rescue does not have a microchip placed, then do consider having one placed by your veterinarian, and, again, properly registering it.

In the case that you directly rescue a furbaby without a third party, such as if the cat or dog is found as a stray, then first have it microchip scanned at a local shelter, rescue group, or veterinary office that has a microchip scanner. This can help ensure that the furbaby does not belong to someone who is looking for them. In the event that no owner is found and you choose to adopt the furbaby, then, again, certainly consider having a microchip implanted, and register it with your contact information.

Also be sure that you understand the renewal process of your furbaby's microchip. Many microchips require yearly renewal, but again, be sure to do your research on the exact microchip that is implanted in your cat or dog. Also make sure that your information, as well as that of your furbaby, is updated as needed in the microchip company's records. If you move, update the address attached to your furbaby's microchip. The same goes for if you have a change of phone number, of any other detail that corresponds with the microchip.

Implanting and keeping a microchip updated can help ensure that, should your furbaby get lost, a microchip scan would still lead back them to you. Today's tip was technically part of our series about adopting a new furbaby, but microchips are relevant and important for any and all furbabies. No one wants to think about what could happen should their furbaby escape and get lost. Should that ever happen, though, a microchip would give them a far better chance of returning to you.

A Handsome Mancat Monday

It's Mancat Monday, and Evan simply wants to make sure you all remember exactly how handsome he is.

Do you see those gorgeous eyes and those stunning whiskers? Are you swooning yet?

Happy Monday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today's flashback doodle is for all the fellow introverts out there.

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Tip of the Day

Yesterday we gave some tips on how to introduce a new cat to a resident cat. Today, we'll give a bit of an idea on what you can do to get a new cat used to a resident dog, or vice versa. Getting a cat and a dog acquainted with each other can, in some ways, mimic the methods used to introduce two cats to each other. For example, just as with two cats, you can start introducing a cat and dog to each other by getting them used to each other's scent. This can include blocking their view of and access to each other, while allowing them to smell each other through a door. You can also swap pieces of their bedding, so that they become used to each other's scent this way.

Once the new cat is used to their surroundings and to the scent of the resident dog, or vice versa, you can begin introducing the cat and dog to the sight of each other. This can be done through a baby gate, through a screen, or safely from across the room. As needed, you can keep dogs on a leash to ensure a safe introduction. Also try to ensure that the cat is able to be safely restrained, should signs of aggression arise. These first meet-and-greets are likely best done from a distance, with each furbaby being distracted and rewarded for good behavior with treats or toys. This exercise can be repeated for however many days it takes for the cat and dog to act non-aggressive or calm in each other's presence. As progress is made, you can slowly start to decrease the distance between the cat and dog.

Over time, a cat and dog can learn to become friends, to tolerate each other, or simply to ignore each other. Allow for the proper patience and time to get the furbabies safely acquainted. Until they are used to and safe around each other, ensure that their time together is supervised. Even if the cat and dog grow well acquainted and tolerant of each, though, still ensure that each furbaby has their own space to be alone as needed. For example, have cat trees or other similar areas to which the cat can retreat, and a bed or crate for the dog to go should they wish.

Friendly Fill-Ins and Eddy Yet Again in the Window

Hello, friends! We're ready for the Friendly Fill-Ins challenge, and we'd love for you to join us. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two fill-in statements, and I came up with the second two.


1. _________ is a quality of mine that I am proud of.

2. _________ is a quality of mine I would like to change.

3. Though I find _________ boring, _________ really interests me.

4. Believe it or not, I deal with _________ on a regular basis.


My answers are below in bold.

1. Imagination is a quality of mine that I am proud of.
(I know I don't have the most vast or most brilliant imagination in the world, but I have just enough imagination that I constantly have ideas for things to draw, write, and that sort of thing. I really do love that about myself, even if it's sometimes overwhelming to be unable to fit all of my ideas into the free time I have.)

2. Analysis paralysis is a quality of mine I would like to change.
(Have you ever heard of this? I recently came upon the term analysis paralysis, which was used to describe overthinking a problem or decision to the point of inaction. I feel like I struggle with this, especially when it comes to deciding which of my passions or life goals to work on in my free time outside of work and chores. I often get little to nothing of my personal goals done when I find myself constantly overthinking my options, but now that I've realized that, I'm working toward better achieving my passions and making more progress.)

3. Though I find gardening boring, nature really interests me.
(I'm just not someone who has the patience to garden, it would seem. That said, I love being outside, at least when it's neither freezing cold nor sweltering hot. In seasons like autumn, I love the outdoors, going for walks, hiking, and that sort of thing. I love nature, I just don't really enjoy the meticulousness of gardening myself.)

4. Believe it or not, I deal with chloroform on a regular basis.

(I work in a chemistry lab, where one of the main solvents we use is chloroform. Though you certainly don't want to directly huff or drink the stuff, it's really not as scary to be around as a lot of people think. Though the stuff has been used as an anesthetic for centuries, movies make chloroform look like some fast-acting weapon that can take someone out in seconds, but that's really not true.)

Now it's your turn!

To add your link to the Friendly Fill-Ins Linky list, just click HERE!

You can also click on the badge below to add your link.

You are also welcome to complete the fill-ins in the comments below,

or in the comments on Ellen's blog, 15andmeowing.

***

Yet again, your Eddy fix today comes in the form of the tabby girl distracted by the view out her beloved window.

Eddy's wishing you all lots of sunny window views today! And if it's as hot in your corner of the world as it is in ours, be sure to enjoy that sunshine from the cool indoors!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip is going to be a bit of a long one, because it's all about how to introduce cats to each other, such as when bringing a new cat home. To be honest, the circumstances and methods of cat introductions can vary, especially depending on the cats involved. Some cats love other cats, some are not fond of other cats, and some are anywhere in between. Just like humans, every cat is different, and every cat has its preferences for who and what is around them. That being said, below we will indeed discuss some of the steps that can be taken to help properly introduce cats to each other.

Let's begin by saying that, though it is certainly not a cure-all for cat introductions, you can give Feliway a try. For long-term use (such as approximately 30 or so days), you can invest in a Feliway diffuser (refills can be purchased for these diffusers). There is also Feliway spray on the market, though a spray's effects do not last nearly as long as a diffuser's. If you are using a Feliway diffuser, it is often recommended that you plug it in roughly 2 weeks prior to an event such as bringing home a new cat, so that the pheromones are already in the home prior to the change.

Moving on, as we already mentioned in a previous tip, of course have somewhere safe for the new kitty to stay once they arrive at their new home. For example, a spare bedroom or a bathroom can make a safe area for a new cat. At this point, it is often best to have a sturdy barrier between the cats, something through which they cannot see each other, such as a door. This way, the cats can smell each other without having to take in the sight of a strange cat. Getting used to the scent of a new cat can be a crucial step before visual contact is made. If safe and feasible, you can even swap the cats' bedding, so that they learn the other's scent this way.

During the aforementioned non-visual olfactory meet-and-greet, there may indeed be hissing or growling. When this hissing and growling is only mild or nonexistent, at that point you try to start allowing the cats to see each other. Of course, using some sort of barrier is still advised, to ensure that no fights occur at the sight of each other. You can use a safe and sturdy baby gate, for example, or even a screen door. If there is hissing, growling, or other signs of aggression, stop the session and give both cats a break from seeing each other. You can repeat this exercise for short spurts, perhaps even multiple times a day, until the aggression diminishes.

The next phase of the introduction is of course best begun only when previous signs of aggression have significantly decreased or disappeared. When the sight of each other no longer spurs hissing, growling, or other aggression, then you can start considering allowing a more direct meet-and-greet. Of course, only do this with heavy supervision. In other words, as you allow the cats to enter the same proximity, without any barrier between them, be very, very watchful. Look for any and all cues that aggression might occur, and if that is the case, stop the session and separate the cats as needed, and then try again when both cats are calm. As a side note, in the potential case of a cat fight, have on hand something safe, such as a towel, that could help you break up the fight.

It may very well take time and lots of patience to get cats used to each other. No matter what phase of introduction you're at, continue safe meet-and-greet sessions as often as is possible and plausible, even if these are best kept brief at first. Getting new cats used to each may indeed take a lot of repetitive exercises such as those listed above. The main yet simple thing to keep in mind is that this will likely take time and patience. Forcing cats to meet in a hasty manner can lead to any number of issues, including aggression or even litter box aversion. While I wish I could say there is a textbook method that guarantees easy, successful cat introductions, that's simply not the case. Just remember to be patient, do not force it, help the cats get to know each other on their own terms and timeline, and closely monitor them until they are well acquainted and have learned to safely like, tolerate, or ignore each other.

Thankful Thimble Thursday: Sunshine and Shadows

Hello, friends! It's Thursday, which means Thimble is ready for Angel Brian's Thankful Thursday Blog Hop.

Today, Thimble is grateful that she's adorable in both sunshine and shadows, even when they happen at the same time.

Thimble and all of the kitties will happily be enjoying that sun from the air conditioned indoors. After all, it's going to be over 90°F here for at last the next week. Stay cool, friends!

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Now, let's share the fill-in statements for tomorrow's Friendly Fill-Ins challenge. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two, and I came up with the second two.

1. _________ is a quality of mine that I am proud of.

2. _________ is a quality of mine I would like to change.

3. Though I find _________ boring, _________ really interests me.

4. Believe it or not, I deal with _________ on a regular basis.

We'll see you tomorrow, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

The extreme heat outdoors has me craving autumn and Halloween even more than usual. So, here's a slightly summery homage to Halloween that I scribbled up a couple years ago.

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Tip of the Day

We are still discussing the ins and outs of bringing home a new cat or dog. Today's tip in this series offers some ideas on how to get a new furbaby acclimated to their new family and home. Especially when it comes to shy kitties or pups, be sure to be patient in helping them get to know you. In order to allow a shy or nervous cat or dog to learn to trust you or other family members, frequently visit with them or sit with them, and perhaps even give them an item or two of your clothing. Offer them food and sit with them while they eat, or offer them treats or toys if that does not stress them. Talk to them soothingly, or even read them a book. Make such visits with them are calm, and always watch for cues that a furbaby is feeling nervous or stressed. Over time, if you remain patient and calm, a new furbaby who is nervous or shy can indeed learn to trust you.

It is not just you or other family members that a new furbaby will have to grow accustomed to, though. Every home and family has its own set of sights and sounds to which a new cat or dog will have to become acclimated. Think of the typical goings-on of your household, and, as needed, help your new furbaby become used to the new sights and sounds by slowly and calmly introducing them to new stimuli. Just as a couple of examples, some furbabies may have to get used to the sound of garbage bags or the sight of an open umbrella. Of course, don't bombard a new cat or dog with new sights and sounds all at once, but, as always, have patience and help them to acclimate to these things slowly over time.

That all being said, introducing a new cat or dog to other animals takes especial care and patience. Slow and proper introductions are of course best for both new and resident cats and dogs. We will further discuss these topics in the very near future.

Adventures with Astrid: Flashback Flowers

Today's adventure with Astrid takes us back a couple of years. Astrid and I regularly walk through a scenic little park in our neighborhood, and in that park is a tree that in the past had the most gorgeous little blooms. This tree hasn't bloomed in a couple years, though, and so that made me go searching for photos of back when it did. So, here are those flashbacks with pup Astrid.

This tree still stands in the park, but it just won't bloom anymore. I have the farthest thing from a green thumb and so don't know why it no longer shares its flowers with us. I'm glad I have these photos with Astrid showing off the pretty tree, as this tree used to be one of my favorite parts of walking through the park in the spring.

Happy Wednesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip on bringing a new furbaby into the home is to have a safe area for them to spend their introductory days. Depending on your situation and living space, this can take on many forms. If you are bringing a social, calm cat into a home with no other animals, there is a chance that they might have free roam of the home right off the bat. However, in many cases, such as if they are nervous or if there are other animals in the home, it is far more wise and safe to give a new furbaby a particular safe area where they can go when first beginning their life at their new home. This safe area could be a bedroom, a bathroom, a spacious cage or similar setup in a safe and quiet room, or something else along these lines.

What's more, consider what this safe area should contain. It should of course have the new furbaby's food, water, litter box, toys, a bed or blanket, and other necessities and comforts. Especially when it comes to nervous or shy furbabies, it is also crucial to ensure that a new kitty or pup has an area where they can feel secure or even hidden. If their safe area does not include anywhere for them to feel secure and hidden, consider giving them some options, even simply by cutting holes in upside-down cardboard boxes.

All in all, you have to consider what a new furbaby is coming home to. Do you live with a large family? Are there other animals? Is the new cat or dog shy? Consider all of these factors, and then decide where and how to keep your new furbaby safe while they are first learning the ropes at their new home.

Tonks Tuesday: Snoozefest

Like her big orange brother yesterday, on this Tonks Tuesday, the little calico is so tired that all she can manage to share is a snoozing shot.

Tonks is wishing you all lots of naps today!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I'm more than ready for autumn and Halloween and all that jazz, which perhaps is why I picked this flashback doodle for today.

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Tip of the Day

The next tip in our series on bringing home a new cat or dog is to ensure that you are prepared with all of the supplies needed for bringing home said furbaby. For example, the new furbaby will of course need food and bowls, and also possibly a litter box, litter, a leash, toys, beds, perhaps a product such as Feliway, a collar and ID tag, and so forth. What's more, though, when selecting such supplies, keep in mind the particular furbaby you're introducing into your home. Is it a kitten or puppy, or a geriatric cat or dog, or a furbaby with special needs? In such cases, have on hand food and other items that would best suit the particular kitty or pup. That being said, it is often recommended that you try to slowly transition a new cat or dog to a new food, so as not to disrupt their digestive system with a sudden change in diet. Therefore, it might also be reasonable to purchase at least a small amount of the food they were eating prior to you bringing them home, and transitioning them to a new food over the course of a few days. All in all, as you all surely know, make all necessary considerations and make proper preparations prior to bringing home a new furbaby.

A Not So Manic Mancat Monday

It's not a manic sort of Monday around here. After all, we have not only one sleepy orange boy to share today, but two sleepy orange boys.

Yesterday, my dad sent a picture of his orange boy Kipper taking a face-first sort of nap.

The funniest thing was that, at that exact same moment, my orange boy Evan looked a lot like Kipper.

These orange boys hope you all get the chance to take a good ol' nap today!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Way back in June of 2018, when we welcomed kittens Tonks and Winky into our home, we shared a series of tips related to introducing new furry family members to the household. I can't remember if we've shared tips on this topic since then, but now that I stumbled upon them again, it seems like a fun little topic to cover again. We're going to begin these tips with a simple yet important one, and that is, before you bring any new furbaby into your home, no matter the species or age, always take into consideration all factors that might affect this decision. For example, do you have enough space in your home to bring home a new cat or dog? If you rent your home, how many animals does the landlord allow? Also consider finances, and whether the proper medical and general care of a new cat or dog will realistically fit in your budget. How about your health? Are you physically able to care for a new cat or dog? Do you have other animals? Do any of them have medical or behavioral issues that would make it unwise to bring home another animal? How about family or roommates with whom you live? Is it reasonable and safe to bring a new cat or dog to live with the other people in your home? Needless to say, there are great many factors to consider before bringing home a new furbaby, so be sure to thoroughly consider all those that apply to you and your home.

Friendly Fill-Ins and Eddy in the Window

Hello, friends! We're ready for the Friendly Fill-Ins challenge, and we'd love for you to join us. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two fill-in statements, and I came up with the second two.


1. If I were a cat, I would hiss at _________.

2. _________ is a hidden gem in my part of the country.

3. _________ went downhill after _________.

4. _________ is the most worn item in my wardrobe.


My answers are below in bold.

1. If I were a cat, I would hiss at people.
(Or at least those who invaded my personal space. Honestly, when I meet a cat who isn't all that into humans, I can't help but think how relatable that can be some days. I know I'd get tired of people touching me and picking me up and relocating me from room to room, and that's coming from someone who does that very thing to her cats. Luckily, my kitties generally seem to enjoy my affections and attention, for which I am very grateful.)

2. Jane Addams Book Shop is a hidden gem in my part of the country.
(I almost mentioned one or two of the nice little woodsy areas where I like to hike in our area, but then this lovely bookshop came to my mind. I haven't been in awhile, but I really want to visit the shop again soon. They've been around for decades, and they have thousands upon thousands of books of all genres, and I've found some great and rare books there over the years.)

3. The reception staff at our vet went downhill after the pandemic.

(A couple of the original receptionists are still there and are friendly and amazing. They're both getting older and working less hours, though, which is completely understandable. That said, during and after the pandemic, our vet started losing some of the other, newer receptionists and are struggling to hire more. They've gotten a few new ones here and there, but I'll only see them a couple times and then they'll be gone again, and I'll admit some of the ones I've met were not the most friendly or organized. One of the veteran receptionists outright told me recently how it wasn't until the pandemic that they really started struggling with staffing and hiring, and they're working on less staff than usual right now, despite putting out ads. I know working at a vet can be a very stressful job, as I worked at one myself for a few years in the past, and I do feel bad when I can tell how busy they are with limited staff.)

4. My slippers are the most worn items in my wardrobe.

(My CatLadyBox shirts are also very well loved and abused, but my slippers are worn every single day and night. I've had to get new slippers many times because of this, but no matter what slippers I have at the time, they are my feet's best friends when I'm at home.)

Now it's your turn!

To add your link to the Friendly Fill-Ins Linky list, just click HERE!

You can also click on the badge below to add your link.

You are also welcome to complete the fill-ins in the comments below,

or in the comments on Ellen's blog, 15andmeowing.

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Are you ready for your Eddy fix? Yet again, this little tabby girl is enjoying the sunshine on her favorite cat tree in her favorite window. And next to her beloved year round Christmas tree, of course.

Eddy and all of us here wish you a happy Friday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Is your kitty or pup a fast eater? If your furbaby inhales their food, there are some potential ways you can help slow down their eating. One way is by placing something such as a golf ball or tennis ball, or another safe item, in the bowl. This can slow down eating since they have to eat around the item. Of course, do make sure that any item used is not a choking hazard, and also that it doesn't take up such a large portion of the bowl that it would restrict the ability to eat altogether. There are also bowls on the market that have partitions that serve the same purpose, to slow down a dog or cat's eating. In this same vein of thought, sometimes all it takes is using a plate rather than a bowl, as having the food more spread out can also slow eating. Using methods to slow down eating can help reduce problems that often result from rapid eating, such as regurgitating food and weight gain from overeating.